Understanding Cellulite and Why Treatments Matter
Cellulite is a common skin concern that affects up to 90% of women at some point in their lives. It appears as dimpled or lumpy skin, typically on the thighs and buttocks. While it's not harmful, many people choose to treat cellulite to feel more confident in their appearance.
Two leading treatments—Cellfina and Aveli—are often compared for their ability to improve cellulite. Both are FDA-cleared and target the cause beneath the skin. Still, they work in different ways, and one may be better depending on your needs. Let's explore how they compare.
What Causes Cellulite?
To understand how treatments work, it helps to know what causes cellulite. Under the skin, fat cells push up against the skin while bands of connective tissue called fibrous septae pull down. This tug-of-war creates the uneven, bumpy look of cellulite. The goal of effective treatment is to cut or release those fibrous bands, allowing the skin to smooth out.
How Does Cellfina Work?
Cellfina is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a tiny, needle-sized device to cut the fibrous bands under the skin. Here's a breakdown of the process:
- The area is numbed with local anesthesia.
- A small, vacuum-assisted handpiece lifts the skin to target the bands.
- A microblade is used to release the tight fibrous structures.
This precise approach works well for moderate to severe cellulite. Most people only need one session, which takes about 45 to 60 minutes. Results begin to show within a few days and continue to improve over the next few months.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Cellfina?
Pros:
- Long-lasting results (up to 3 years or more)
- High satisfaction rate
- One-time treatment in most cases
Cons:
- Bruising and soreness for a few days after
- Minor swelling in treated areas
- Requires downtime of 2–3 days for recovery
How Does Aveli Work?
Aveli is a newer, more advanced cellulite treatment. Like Cellfina, it targets the fibrous septae. But Aveli includes real-time confirmation during the procedure. That means your provider can see which bands they are releasing as they work. Here’s how it works:
- The area is numbed with local anesthesia.
- A special handheld device is inserted just under the skin.
- The tool locates and cuts individual septae with precision.
- A light and tactile feedback system helps confirm that each band was successfully severed.
Aveli is designed for buttocks and thigh treatment, and the session typically takes about an hour.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Aveli?
Pros:
- Highly targeted: treats each band individually
- Immediate confirmation of success
- Minimally invasive with little scarring
- Effective after one session
Cons:
- Swelling and tenderness may last several days
- Slight bruising in some cases
- Limited long-term studies available due to it being a newer treatment
Comparing the Results
Both Cellfina and Aveli release the fibrous bands that cause dimples. But which one delivers better results?
Effectiveness:
Clinical trials show that both procedures offer over 90% patient satisfaction one year after treatment. However, Aveli's targeted approach may lead to more consistent smoothing, especially in smaller treatment zones.
Longevity:
Cellfina has proven staying power. Patients often see changes lasting three years or more. With Aveli being newer, we don’t yet have long-term data beyond 12 months, though initial studies show strong promise.
Downtime and Recovery:
Downtime is fairly similar for both. Most people return to light activity in 1–2 days but should avoid strenuous exercise for about a week. Aveli may offer slightly easier recovery due to its real-time feedback tool, which helps to avoid overtreatment or trauma.
Personalized Care:
Because Aveli allows your provider to feel and see each fibrous band, it may be more customized for individual anatomy. Cellfina uses a grid pattern to release multiple bands in one session, which works well for broader treatment areas.
What’s the Cost Comparison?
Cellulite treatment is often considered cosmetic, so insurance doesn’t cover it. The average cost for Cellfina ranges between $3,000 and $6,000, depending on how many areas are treated. Aveli is slightly newer and may cost $3,500 to $7,000 in some clinics. While Aveli could be more expensive up front, its precision might reduce the need for retreatment.
Who Should Choose Cellfina?
Cellfina may be best for people who:
- Have moderate to severe cellulite on larger areas
- Want long-term improvement with just one session
- Are okay with a few days of downtime
- Prefer a treatment with proven, multi-year results
Who Should Consider Aveli?
Aveli might be ideal for people who:
- Want a targeted, personalized treatment
- Prefer real-time confirmation during the procedure
- Are treating smaller or more defined areas
- Are comfortable choosing a newer technology
Should You Combine Treatments?
Some patients combine cellulite treatments like Aveli or Cellfina with radiofrequency skin tightening or collagen stimulation for enhanced results. Your provider can recommend a treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals.
The Bottom Line
Both Aveli and Cellfina are effective, modern treatments for cellulite that offer long-lasting results with minimal downtime. Your choice will depend on your specific needs, anatomy, and comfort with new technology. Whether you want the proven track record of Cellfina or the precision of Aveli, speaking with a licensed provider is the best first step.
Book Your Consultation Today
Ready to smooth out cellulite and feel more confident in your skin? Schedule your personalized consultation today. A skincare expert will help you decide if Aveli or Cellfina is right for you and build a custom plan for beautiful, lasting results.
